I don’t think the guy should always pay for dinner if you go out to dinner, but perhaps the first couple of times it makes the lady feel special like she’s being treated. Money can become too much of an issue and get in the way.

In order to make sure that the lady is not trying to take the guy for a ride, and just get out of him what she can, it’s probably sensible to go for a drink, or some other sort of date where there is less focus on who is paying for it, where you can get to know each other first. Going for a walk in nice surroundings, going to a zoo or gallery or museum if you’re into that sort of thing, or to a comedy night. Anywhere you can focus on each other, but with a few distractions to take the pressure away.

Then it should become easier to tell if you get on well and you’re not just going to be taken advantage of. Then it’s nice for the guy to pay for a meal out if he can afford it, or otherwise perhaps to cook one. That’s always good too (and cheaper)